In which position is an animal placed during sternal recumbency?

In sternal recumbency, an animal is positioned on its sternum, which means that its chest and legs are resting on the ground while the animal is in a horizontal posture. This position is commonly used in veterinary practices because it allows for a variety of procedures to be performed without causing the animal undue stress or discomfort.

Sternal recumbency is particularly beneficial when taking vital signs, examining the respiratory system, or performing procedures that require easy access to the thoracic area. It also provides a stable and secure position for the animal, making it less likely to become agitated compared to other positions.

The other choices do not accurately reflect sternal recumbency: sitting upright would not be stable for an animal during clinical examinations, being on its back would constitute dorsal recumbency, and positioning on its side would refer to lateral recumbency. Each of these other orientations offers different advantages and uses but does not align with the definition of sternal recumbency.